Australia’s pump industry faces a familiar challenge: an ageing workforce and a shortage of skilled engineers ready to step into senior roles. Engineers Australia has warned that demand for engineers is outstripping supply, with a national shortfall of more than 50,000 engineers across all sectors reported in 2023.
Apprenticeships are also struggling to keep pace, with NCVER data showing that engineering trades account for less than five per cent of new apprenticeships nationally. For Regent Pumps, one of the sector’s most established suppliers, addressing this shortage means investing in the future by cultivating young talent.
Apprenticeships with purpose
Conor McDonagh, Operations Manager at Regent Pumps, said the company has made a deliberate choice to prioritise apprenticeships, training, and mentoring.
“We are focused on pump engineer development, not just for Regent Pumps, but for the industry as a whole,” he said. “If we don’t create pathways for young people now, the skills gap will only widen in the years to come.”
Apprenticeships form a cornerstone of Regent Pumps’ strategy. McDonagh explained that the company has established partnerships with training organisations to ensure apprentices receive both technical and practical experience.
“It’s not enough to hand someone a manual and expect them to learn on the job,” McDonagh said. “We combine structured training with hands-on work in real environments. That’s how you create confident, capable engineers.”
“We want our people to appreciate the role pumps play in critical infrastructure,” McDonagh said. “That perspective helps them see the impact of their work and the importance of doing it well.”
The value of mentorship and diversity
Mentorship plays an equally vital role. Apprentices are paired with senior engineers, ensuring decades of knowledge are passed on. Elvin Khoo, Group Engineering Manager, brings over 20 years of core industry experience, interpreting technical illustrations and troubleshooting design/manufacturing challenges.
“We want to see young ones stepping up and owning the industry,” Khoo said. “It’s time they shine and show that they are the future leaders of the industry.”
Regent Pumps also recognised the importance of diversity.
“If the industry is going to reflect the communities it serves, then we need to be open and proactive in recruiting and supporting diverse talent,” he said.
The company’s commitment to pump engineer development aligns with a broader national need. Engineering skills are in short supply across Australia, with many sectors competing for the same pool of talent.
“Pumps don’t always get the spotlight, but they are vital to everything from water treatment to energy,” McDonagh said. “That’s why we need to make this industry an attractive and rewarding career choice.”
Looking ahead
Tim Yakup, National Sales Manager, is the driving force who is looking ahead. Regent Pumps plans to expand its training programs, including stronger links with schools and universities.
“We need to reach young people earlier,” Yakup said. “When students understand that pumps are at the heart of industries that matter, like water security, energy efficiency, and manufacturing, they can see a meaningful career path.”
For Regent Pumps, the long-term goal is clear: create a pipeline of skilled, motivated engineers who will sustain the industry for decades to come.
“We’re not just training for today’s projects,” Yakup said. “We’re building the next generation of pump engineers who will solve tomorrow’s challenges.”
For more information, visit regentpumps.com.au
